In the year 2000, Tata Motors unveiled the TATA Aria, a captivating two-seater coupe convertible, at the Geneva Auto Show. This stylish roadster was showcased on the same platform as the TATA Indica and was envisioned to be equipped with a potent 140-horsepower engine.
The TATA Aria made its international debut with the honor of unveiling bestowed upon Ms. World Yukta Mookhey and Ratan Tata, the Chairman of the TATA Group. The vehicle, with its enticing design, marked Tata Motors' venture into the realm of a sporty and visually appealing roadster.
The car, crafted on the TATA Indica platform, presented a serious front-wheel-drive option, measuring 3.7 meters in length and housing a proposed 140-horsepower gasoline engine. The body design of the Aria was entrusted to the skilled engineers at the I.De.A Institute, an Italian studio that had previously collaborated on the creation of the Indica hatchback. The Aria featured a folding soft top equipped with an electro-hydraulic drive, adding a touch of sophistication to its convertible design.
Anticipating the start of serial production in two to three years, the TATA Aria aimed to make a mark in the roadster segment. Alongside the roadster variant, Tata Motors had plans for an extended lineup based on the same platform. This lineup included a sedan, a station wagon, a compact SUV, and a four-seater convertible with an extended wheelbase, showcasing Tata's commitment to diversifying its offerings.
The TATA Aria, with its blend of style, performance, and versatility, reflected Tata Motors' ambition to explore new horizons in the automotive market.
Sources: www.idea.institute.it; www.tatacarsworldwide.com; EXHIBITIONS, Autoreview No. 05, 2000
Images: www.idea.institute.it
